Former Assam Congress president Bhupen Borah has quit the party, triggering a political storm ahead of the state’s upcoming assembly elections. Borah has reportedly cited Rakibul Hussain, a Congress Member of Parliament from Dhubri, as a key reason behind his resignation.
Borah alleged that Hussain effectively controls the party’s affairs in Assam, while Gaurav Gogoi, the state unit chief, functions only as a figurehead. Hussain has not directly responded to the accusations but said he would address the matter in the coming days.
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Who Is Rakibul Hussain?
Rakibul Hussain is widely regarded as the most influential Muslim Congress leader in Assam. A former minister in the government led by late Chief Minister Tarun Gogoi, Hussain has been a dominant political figure in the state for over two decades.
In the 2024 Lok Sabha elections, Hussain secured a landslide victory from Dhubri, defeating Badruddin Ajmal, chief of the All India United Democratic Front, by more than 10 lakh votes—one of the highest winning margins in the country. Ajmal had earlier represented Dhubri for three consecutive terms.
Before entering Parliament, Hussain served as the MLA from Samaguri in Nagaon district for 23 years, from 2001 to 2024. Following his elevation to the Lok Sabha, Congress fielded his son Tanjil Hussain in the by-election, but he failed to retain the family stronghold.
Crucial Figure for Congress Strategy
Rakibul Hussain is considered central to the Congress party’s electoral strategy for the Assam assembly polls, expected in March–April. His long association with Tarun Gogoi and strong grassroots influence have made him a trusted leader within the party’s top circles.
Borah’s resignation has now brought internal tensions within the Assam Congress into sharp focus, raising questions about leadership, power equations and the party’s preparedness for the crucial elections ahead.
(This story is published from a syndicated feed)
